Commuter Alert: Major Rail Shutdown and Mooloolaba Traffic Impacts This Tuesday

Morning Update: Major Rail Closures and Mooloolaba Pack-Down Delays

Good morning, Sunshine Coast. If you are heading out for the Tuesday commute this 17th of March, 2026, be prepared for significant disruptions on the rail network and localized roadworks across the region. Here is what you need to know to navigate your morning journey safely and efficiently.

Rail Network: Replacement Buses in Effect

The most significant impact for commuters today remains on the Sunshine Coast Line. As part of a major rail transformation project, the track is closed between Landsborough and Caboolture stations. These works, which include the Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade Stage 1 and supporting works for Cross River Rail, are scheduled to continue throughout today, Tuesday, March 17.

• Buses will replace trains for all services between Landsborough and Caboolture.
• Commuters should allow for at least 45 to 60 minutes of additional travel time depending on traffic conditions on the Bruce Highway.
• Check your local station for updated bus departure times, as schedules for replacement services may differ from regular train arrivals.

Road Closures: Mooloolaba Triathlon Final Pack-Down

While the main competition for the 34th annual Mooloolaba Triathlon took place over the weekend, several site-specific closures for equipment pack-down will continue to affect local traffic and parking today:

• Northern Parklands: A total parklands closure and foot traffic diversions remain in place until 5:00 pm today.
• Charles Clark Park: The car park remains fully closed to the public until Wednesday, March 18, to allow for the removal of event infrastructure.
• Expect minor delays and increased pedestrian activity around the Mooloolaba Esplanade and River Esplanade areas as heavy vehicles move equipment out of the precinct.

Local Roadworks and Commuter Upgrades

Several new and ongoing council projects may impact your local travel times this morning:

• Buderim: Road resealing works are scheduled to commence today on Burnett Lane. Motorists should expect temporary lane closures and traffic control measures over the next two weeks.
• Aroona: Construction begins today for the footpath renewal at Ocean Ridge Park. While road impacts are expected to be minimal, residents should be aware of workers and machinery near the roadway.
• Alexandra Headland: Road rehabilitation continues on Janet Street. This work is expected to last for another two weeks; please follow all posted detours.
• Coastal Path Updates: The Alex Bluff Foreshore Park coastal path upgrade remains in progress, with pedestrians required to use the designated shared pathway diversions.

Travel Recommendations

With Saint Patrick’s Day festivities taking place this evening, local authorities are reminding residents to plan their trips home in advance if they intend to celebrate. For those relying on public transport, the real-time tracking features on the Translink app will provide the most accurate arrival times for the rail replacement buses operating throughout the day.